Complete file operations
Copy, move, delete, rename, fuzzy search, bulk operations, and image preview are called out on the site as core file-management capabilities.
superfile
superfile is a terminal file manager for developers and terminal-first users who want to handle common file operations from the command line. It combines a polished interface with panes, theming, hotkey customization, and plugin support.
Overview
superfile is a terminal file manager for developers and other users who prefer working from the command line. It focuses on common file tasks such as copying, moving, deleting, renaming, searching, and handling items in bulk, while keeping those operations inside a terminal interface.
The product is built with Go and Bubble Tea and is positioned around a refined UI rather than maximum feature breadth. The site describes it as a good fit for straightforward file or directory work, especially for users who want a cleaner terminal workflow with panes, themes, hotkey customization, and plugin support.
Features
Refined terminal UI
The interface is described as carefully designed for readability and visual polish while still living entirely in the terminal.
Customizable layout and controls
Users can remap hotkeys, choose themes, and adjust borders and colors to match a preferred workflow.
Multiple panels
Superfile supports multiple directory panes so you can work across locations and move files between panels.
Plugin support
The site mentions community plugins for Git status integration, system monitoring, and custom commands.
Built-in themes
More than 20 built-in themes are listed, including Catppuccin, Nord, Tokyo Night, Dracula, Gruvbox, and Rose Pine.
Use cases
Routine terminal file operations
Use superfile when you want to copy, move, rename, delete, or bulk-manage files without switching to a graphical file manager.
Side-by-side directory navigation
Use the multiple panes to compare folders, move files between locations, or keep two directories visible while you work.
Customized terminal workflow
Use hotkey remapping, theme selection, and border/color adjustments to match an existing terminal setup and personal workflow.
Extending the file manager
Use plugins to add small workflow helpers such as Git status, system monitoring, or custom commands.
Cross-platform setup
Use the installation options for Linux, macOS, Windows, and common package managers when you want a quick setup path on your preferred system.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Covers common file operations without leaving the terminal.
- Supports multiple panes for side-by-side directory work.
- Offers hotkey remapping, theming, and color/border customization.
- Includes plugin support for extending the workflow.
- Provides installation options across several operating systems and package managers.
Cons
- The overview says it is not as feature-packed as some other terminal file managers.
- A Nerd font is recommended for the best visual result, so the UI may look off without one.
FAQ
What does superfile do?
Superfile runs in the terminal and is designed for file management tasks such as copy, move, delete, rename, search, and bulk operations. It also supports image preview, multiple panels, and theming.
How do I install and launch superfile?
The installation guide shows commands for Linux, macOS, Windows, Arch Linux, Homebrew, NixOS, Pixi, Winget, Scoop, and x-cmd. After installation, you run `spf` to start it.
What do I need to use superfile well?
The website describes superfile as built with Go and Bubble Tea, and the install guide notes that a Nerd font is recommended for the best UI appearance.
Is superfile open source?
The product site presents superfile as open source under the MIT License and provides a GitHub link for the project.
Who is superfile best suited for?
The overview page says superfile is a good fit for straightforward file or directory tasks and notes that users looking for a more feature-packed terminal file manager may want to compare it with tools like Yazi.
Quick Facts
- Category
- Terminal File Manager
- Platform
- macOS, Linux, Windows
- Primary users
- Developers and terminal-first users
- License
- MIT License
- Tech stack
- Go, Bubble Tea
- Install/start
- Install via script or package manager; run `spf` to start
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